Esophageal ulcers are sores within the esophagus or throat muscle that carries food and fluids from the mouth to the stomach. Ulcerations usually develop from chronic gastroesophageal reflux. GER is commonly referred to as heartburn because of the burning sensation caused by acids from the stomach escaping up into the esophagus. According to the Merck Manual, people with severe GER more than twice per week are diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease. People with esophageal ulcers may need a special diet to decrease the symptoms and allow the area to heal.
Anatomy
The connection between the esophagus and the stomach is controlled by a sphincter muscle, which acts like a valve. Sometimes, this muscle does not close tightly enough or the pressure in the stomach is too much for it to control. When stomach contents, including acid, move back up into the esophagus, the lining is not equipped to withstand the strong acids. This causes the burning feeling as the acids are damaging the cells of the lining and, over time, can cause changes in the cells which increase the risk of cancer, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Diet Modifications
Eat small meals more frequently to reduce the volume in the stomach and promote transition through the intestinal tract. During acute treatment of an active ulcer, foods should be soft without any seeds, skins or other large particles. They should be low in spices and fiber. Low-fat options are best, and you should eat foods high in nutrition. A bland diet includes all dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt and pudding; cooked, canned or frozen vegetables; cooked or canned fruits; white-flour bread products; cooked hot cereals; lean, tender meats; creamy peanut butter; eggs and tofu. Food and beverages to avoid include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, fried foods, raw foods, highly seasoned foods, acidic items such as citrus or tomato products and vinegar items such as pickles or salad dressing.
Lifestyle Changes
Stop smoking if you smoke. Lose weight if you are overweight. Modify your food intake as needed. Reducing the incidence of reflux will prevent the development of ulcers. Not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial to reducing risk of reflux. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine and fried foods reduces the pressure created by digestion. Sit upright for meals and stay upright for at least 30 minutes after meals. Raise the head of your bed to prevent acids from creeping up into the esophagus overnight. Many people require chronic medication therapy to decrease stomach acid secretion.
Meal Planning
To take in enough food without eating too much at any one time, at least six small meals should include nutritious, low-fat, soft and bland foods. Sip water throughout the day to get enough fluids without excessive volume. A sample day may include the following: cooked oatmeal with applesauce, sliced banana, cinnamon and a glass of cranberry juice; hard boiled eggs, smooth peanut butter on crackers and decaffeinated tea with milk; chicken salad with low-fat mayonnaise and soft lettuce on white bread with low-fat milk; low-fat cottage cheese with canned peaches or pears and decaffeinated iced tea; baked fish with macaroni and cheese, well-cooked carrots and low-fat milk; and low-fat custard-style flavored yogurt.
Warning
Bleeding ulcers may show up as red blood in vomit or as dark, tarry stools. Severe bleeding may require other feeding methods, including tube feeding. See you doctor for treatment specific to your needs. People with GERD may need more frequent monitoring and screening for cancer risk, including scope and biopsy.
